2006 merc. low rpms.

[kellyg]

I have a 2006 merc. 150 opti max on a 22 ft. center console boat and the max rpm i can get out of it
is 5000 with a 3 blade 19 pitch prop. Is this normal.

 

[gss036]

Re: 2006 merc. low rpms.

What does your owners manual say? I would think 5500 would be closer to normal, but Mercury probably says that is within range. I think your prop may be a little too much. Maybe drop down to 141/2-15X17 and that would give you about 200 more rpm.
Where is the cavatition plate in reference to the "V" botom of the boat? Should be about even.

 

[andy6374]

Re: 2006 merc. low rpms.

Yeah, the 2" of pitch decrease will get you 300-400 RPMs. Maybe even a 15 pitch.

Like Gary said, make sure the cavatation plate is even or 1" above the keel.

 

[kellyg]

Re: 2006 merc. low rpms.

my cavatation plate is 1 1/4 " above the keel. Will going down in pitch lower my top end speed.

 

[andy6374]

Re: 2006 merc. low rpms.

It might, but that's better than lugging your engine. And lugging will certainly bring your engine to a quicker demise.